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Recipients to be Honored at the LRCC Annual Dinner on February 27th

LANSING, Mich. – The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) will honor the recipients of four major awards at the LRCC’s Annual Dinner on Thursday, February 27, at the Lansing Center.

The award recipients include:

“Our Annual Dinner is a time to reflect on the incredible achievements of the past year and to honor businesses and community leaders that are moving our region forward with their innovation and dedication,” said Tim Daman, president and CEO, LRCC. “It is also an opportunity to reaffirm our shared commitment to creating a future for Lansing that is rich with growth and opportunity.”

Community Service Award: Ashley Smith, Co-Owner and Broker, Oasis Realty 
A lifelong resident of the greater Lansing area, Smith enjoys spending time volunteering in the community as a trustee for the Capital Area District Library Board, president of the Ingham County Animal Shelter Fund, board member of the Everett Alumni Association and Transcendence Performing Arts Center, and as a member of Lansing Junior League and the Care Free Medical events committee. She is also on the board of the Women’s Council of Realtors of Lansing to help bring education and professional development to local real estate agents. In 2023, she became co-owner and associate broker of Oasis Realty. Her favorite part of real estate is helping her clients reach their home buying goals, especially first time homebuyers.

Outstanding Small Business Award: Güd Marketing
Güd Marketing is a fully integrated marketing and communications agency dedicated to impacting communities for the greater good. With a team of nearly 50 marketing professionals, Güd Marketing is committed to building a better, more equitable future by utilizing the power of communications to promote positive outcomes. Although the organization was founded in 1978, over the past decade, Güd Marketing has exclusively partnered with government and nonprofit organizations to connect public audiences with services and resources that benefit individuals and strengthen communities. Güd Marketing is a category expert in dedicated areas of focus, including housing, environmental sustainability, education, and community infrastructure.

Diversity Star Award: Socialight Society
Socialight Society is an independent bookstore founded by Nyshell Lawrence with a mission to amplify the voices of Black women. Located in Lansing, Michigan. Socialight Society celebrates Black literature, curating books that reflect the diverse experiences, strength, and resilience of Black women. More than a bookstore, it’s a community space for cultural connection, hosting events, discussions, and storytelling gatherings that bring together readers, authors, and creatives. Through thoughtful partnerships and events, Socialight Society builds bridges within the community and fosters an environment where Black women feel seen, celebrated, and empowered.

“Socialight Society exemplifies the transformative power of entrepreneurship. Through her passion and dedication, Nyshell Lawrence has not only built a thriving business but also created a platform that uplifts and empowers our community, and specifically that of Black women. LEAP is proud to have supported Nyshell’s journey and to see her receive the Diversity Star Award, which reflects her incredible contributions to equity and inclusion in the Lansing region,” said Tony Willis, chief equity development officer at LEAP.

Legacy Award: General Motors
The Legacy Award was created to recognize organizations for their long-time commitment as dedicated members and investors in the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. The LRCC proudly recognizes General Motors as a Chamber member and investor for 70 years. General Motors is a global leader in the future of mobility and transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs.  GM proudly operates two assembly plants, two stamping plants and a distribution center in the Lansing region.

The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner takes place on Thursday, February 27, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Lansing Center. Questions can be directed to Ashlee Willis at michiganpremierevents@lansingchamber.org. Tickets are $95 for LRCC members and $140 for future members. Registration and additional information can be found at www.lansingchamber.org.

About the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce: The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce works relentlessly to help businesses connect, grow, and thrive. No mid-Michigan business stands alone when they are a member of the Chamber. For 124 years, the Lansing Chamber has served as the voice of the Greater Lansing business community. More information about LRCC and its programs and services can be found online at lansingchamber.org, Facebook, Instagram (@lansingregionalchamber), Twitter (@lansingchamber) and LinkedIn.